Heat Stroke: Children and Hot Cars

Heat Stroke: Children and Hot Cars

As we approach the summer months, it is important to remember the dangers of leaving children in vehicles. Children’s Safety Network has released a new national survey on heat stroke and children trapped in cars. Although awareness has increased, there is still plenty more that needs to be done.

Heat Stroke Statistics

Since 1998, 636 children have died from heat stroke in vehicles. Of the total 636, over half were forgotten by an adult and left in the vehicle, while 47% died after gaining access to an unattended vehicle.

The new survey shows that awareness is increasing on this issue. About 85% of the survey respondents show they knew some of the dangers involving leaving children in vehicles. That’s a substantial increase from the survey conducted last year, where only 69% of parents and caregivers knew “a lot or some” of the dangers.

Resources

• Examples from the News: Heat Stroke in Cars
• Student Resource: An infographic on heat stroke deaths of children in vehicles
• Watch a short film: One Decision (Child Safety Film)

Preventing Heat stroke in Cars

Here are some great tips on preventing heat stroke in cars from the Children’s Safety Network:

1. Never leave a child unattended, even with the windows cracked or “for a minute.”

2.  Always check the backseat when exiting the vehicle (put your phone or purse in the back seat to create a reminder system).

3.  Always keep vehicle doors and trunks locked and the keys out of reach.

4.  Make an agreement with your childcare provider to always call you when your child is absent.

5.  Call 911 if you see a child alone in a vehicle.